5-Day Whirlwind Tour of Japan: Daikoku Parking Lot, Shibuya Sky, Kyoto, Gundam Factory Yokohama, Itsukushima Shrine

  • Day 1: Tokyo - Daikoku Parking Lot - Shibuya Sky
    35 minutes (21.5 km) from Narita Airport T1

    Get ready to be mesmerized by Tokyo’s eclectic street scene, beginning at the cool and hip Daikoku parking lot that has become synonymous with Japan’s car culture. Check out the many customized and eccentric cars on display, mingle with the locals and grab some delicious street food from one of the food trucks. From here, head to Shibuya Sky, a stunning observatory with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Tokyo in all its glory. Take a leisurely stroll along Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest intersection while you’re here.

  • Day 2: Kyoto
    2 hours 40 minutes (530 km) from Tokyo by Shinkansen

    Travel back in time to Japan’s golden era at Kyoto, Japan’s quintessential cultural hub that is known for its geishas, quaint tea houses, and majestic temples. You can either take a guided tour or explore the city on foot or on a bike, whichever suits your fancy, and visit iconic spots like Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Bamboo Forest, or soak in the natural beauty of Arashiyama Park. Don't forget to sample some of the local delicacies like tofu, matcha tea, and kaiseki cuisine for an ultimate foodie experience.

  • Day 3: Gundam Factory Yokohama
    2 hours (74 km) from Kyoto by Shinkansen

    Step into the world of anime and robots at the Gundam factory in Yokohama, where life-sized robots move and transform before your eyes. Watch the spectacular show in a fully equipped theater that combines 4D technology, lighting, and sound to enhance the entire experience. Visitors can also explore the adjacent factory where the planning, design, and production of Gundam robots takes place. For a true-meets-tech experience, visit the Gundam café and grab some robot-themed refreshments.

  • Day 4: Itsukushima Shrine
    1.5 hours (48 km) from Gundam Factory Yokohama by train

    Explore the historic Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built on stilts off the coast of Miyajima Island. Visitors can witness stunning ceremonies, including the traditional dance known as Bugaku and marvel at the picturesque beauty of the floating torii gate, which is considered one of Japan's Three Great Views. Take a stroll through the serene Momijidani Park and take in the vibrancy of Japanese maple trees.

  • Day 5: Tokyo
    Less than 2 hours (90 km) from Miyajimaguchi by train

    There is still so much to explore in Tokyo, and with a little bit of extra time to spare, dive deeper into the city’s culture and tradition. Visit the Tsukiji fish market, Tokyo Disneyland, Odaiba, or take in a traditional Kabuki theater show. For the foodies, embark on a culinary adventure and indulge in some delicious Japanese street food.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dalikoku Parking Lot (1-2 hours, free)
  • Shibuya Sky (2 hours, 2000 yen)
  • Kyoto Tour (1 day, 10000 yen) - includes tour guide, admission tickets to temples, and bike rental
  • Gundam Factory in Yokohama (2 hours, 3740 yen) - includes general admission and short factory tour
  • Itsukushima Shrine (3 hours, 2000 yen) - includes round-trip ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima Island
  • Tsukiji Fish Market (2 hours, free) - includes walking tour and complimentary snacks
  • Tokyo Disneyland (1 day, 8200 yen) - includes general admission and fast passes
  • Kabuki Theater (2 hours, 10000 yen) - includes admission and English headset
  • Street Food Tasting (3-4 hours, 3000 yen) - includes sampling of various Japanese street food delicacies
  • Total Estimated Costs: 35840 yen

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider exploring Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods like Akihabara, Harajuku, or Shinjuku, or taking a day trip to the picturesque Mount Fuji. Alternatively, if you’re looking to shorten your trip, consider skipping some of the attractions in Kyoto, such as the Bamboo Forest or Arashiyama Park. Remember to pre-book tickets for popular attractions to avoid waiting in long queues, and always carry yen as some smaller establishments may not accept cards or foreign currency. Lastly, be mindful of the unique Japanese customs and etiquette, such as bowing and taking off your shoes before entering temples.

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